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CBP and CPSC Seize Lead-Contaminated Toys in San Juan

Release Date:

February 8, 2013

WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers and Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) investigators have seized multiple shipments of nearly 30,000 toys imported into the port of San Juan, Puerto Rico, containing levels of lead that exceed legal limits. The total domestic value for the shipments is estimated to be more than $335,000. The shipments were targeted by the CBP Commercial Targeting and Analysis Center (CTAC).

"The concerted targeting efforts of the CTAC and the vigilance of CBP officers at our ports of entry ensure that toys are safe for children," said Allen Gina, CBP's assistant commissioner for international trade. "Ensuring the safety of imported merchandise is a top priority for CBP."

CBP works closely with CPSC at ports of entry to identify potentially unsafe shipments to ensure the safety of imported toys. CPSC has established permanent staffing at the CTAC in Washington and is working with CBP to stop unsafe imports from entering the U.S.

The CTAC combines resources and personnel from various government agencies to protect the American public from harm caused by unsafe imported products. The center accomplishes this through better communication, information-sharing and by reducing redundant inspection activities.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.